I finally feel like I know the real Mallorca. The hype makes total sense to me now. This is one of those islands that surprises you in the best way.
For years, I avoided the busier parts of the Balearics. I worried the island might feel too much like a tourist trap. Busy resorts and crowded beaches were what I expected to find. However, there is so much more to it than that.
You will find rugged mountains and quiet stone villages. Hidden coves and amazing food scenes wait for you too. The diversity of the landscape is actually quite staggering.
My visits to this Balearic gem have been frequent lately. Each trip felt completely different from the last one.
I have stayed in all-inclusive resorts with my kids. Friends joined me to explore the buzzing streets of Palma. Recently, I even went on a hiking trip through the mountains.
Planning your first trip can feel a bit overwhelming. There are so many different areas to choose from. This guide covers the big sights and the secret spots. Below is my round-up of 11 things to do in Mallorca that you will truly love.
I have included where I stayed and some easy day trip ideas too. If you want a full plan, check out my ultimate Mallorca itinerary.
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Best Things to do in Mallorca at a Glance
Endless things to see wait for you on this island. You can visit the iconic Palma Cathedral or the quirky mountain villages.
Start in the capital if you are short on time. Exploring the Old Town is a must do experience. Such a walk sets the tone for your whole trip.
The island is much larger than people think. Driving from north to south takes over an hour. You should plan your route carefully to see the best bits. Each region has its own unique personality and charm.
So let’s get into the top things to do in Mallorca…
1. Wander Through Palma Old Town
Palma is the beating heart of the island. The area is full of life and history. I loved wandering the cobbled streets with my friends recently. We found tiny cafés and hidden art galleries at every turn.
The La Seu Cathedral is the star of the show. Its Gothic spires are truly breathtaking. Light inside the building feels magical in the morning. Try to arrive early to avoid the crowds of tourists. The rose window is one of the largest in the world.
History buffs will love the Royal Palace of La Almudaina. It sits right next to the cathedral. You can walk through grand rooms and beautiful gardens. The architecture shows the island’s Moorish and Christian past.
Top Tip: Look for the hidden courtyards in the side streets. They are peaceful and perfect for photos. Many of these patios date back centuries.
Want to see how to fit Palma into a few days along with other highlights? Check out my full Mallorca itinerary.
2. Discover Valldemossa Village
Valldemossa is a charming village in the mountains. This spot is perfect for a scenic day trip.
You will find stone streets and beautiful red-tiled roofs. It almost feels like a film set.
Famous composer Frédéric Chopin once spent a winter here. You can visit the monastery where he stayed. The gardens there are filled with colourful flowers and statues.
It is a very romantic place to walk around.
My visit there was to check out the famous GR221 hiking route. The views are worth the drive even if you don’t hike. Stop for a coffee in the main square.
It remains one of the most relaxing things to do in Mallorca.
3. Take the Vintage Train to Sóller
A trip to Sóller is worth a full day. You must take the vintage wooden train from Palma. This route winds through the Tramuntana mountains and orange groves. The journey feels like stepping back in time.
The carriages are made of polished wood and brass. You can open the windows to smell the citrus trees. It is a slow and steady ride through several tunnels.
This is perfect for taking photos of the countryside.
Explore the town square once you arrive. Grab a local orange ice cream while you walk. The old tram can also take you down to the port. It is a nostalgic and beautiful experience.
The port has a lovely promenade for a sunset stroll.
4. Relax at Cala Deià
Skip the crowded resort beaches for a day. Head to Cala Deià instead of the busy spots. This is a small shingle beach with crystal clear water. It sits tucked away at the bottom of a valley.
The walk down to the beach is quite steep. Wear sensible shoes for the rocky path.
Once you arrive, the water is incredibly inviting. It is a popular spot for snorkelling in the afternoon. The sea here is a deep, shimmering green.
Two great seafood restaurants sit right on the rocks. You can eat fresh fish while the waves crash nearby. Ca’s Patró March is the most famous one.
This is one of the most rugged and pretty things to do in Mallorca. Make sure you book a table in advance!
5. Hike the Serra de Tramuntana
The mountains are a must if you love adventure. These trails offer spectacular views of the sea. I loved the coastal paths near Deià. The air smells like pine and sea salt here.
There are routes for all fitness levels. Some paths lead to hidden watchtowers on the cliffs. Others take you through ancient olive groves.
The scenery changes around every single corner. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason.
Always bring plenty of water with you. The sun gets very hot at midday. Start your hike early to enjoy the peace. It is a great way to see the wild side of the island. You might even see some wild goats or rare birds!
6. Drive to Cap de Formentor
Cap de Formentor is the northern tip of Mallorca. The drive there is famous for its hairpin bends. Spectacular views of Europe open up along the way.
Huge cliffs drop straight into the turquoise sea.
Stop at the Mirador des Colomer viewpoint. The platform juts out over the ocean. It is a dizzying but beautiful sight.
The wind can be quite strong up there. Hold onto your hat while you take photos!
The lighthouse at the end is a classic photo spot. Try to go for sunrise or sunset. Golden light makes the rocks glow beautifully.
This is one of the easiest things to do in Mallorca for big views. The drive itself is an adventure you won’t forget.
7. Explore the Caves of Drach
These are some of the most impressive caves in the world. You will see thousands of stalactites hanging from the roof. The highlight is the huge underground lake. It is called Lake Martel.
The temperature inside stays cool all year round. This makes it a perfect activity for a rainy day.
You will follow a guided path through the caverns. The rock formations look like alien landscapes.
Watch a live classical music concert on the water. Musicians float past in small wooden boats. It feels very special and a bit mysterious.
The cave is a great escape from the heat. You can even take a short boat ride across the lake.
8. Visit the Mercat de l’Olivar
Food is a massive part of the island culture. Head to the Mercat de l’Olivar in Palma. This is a huge indoor market full of local treats. You can try fresh olives, cheeses and seafood.
The atmosphere is loud and very friendly. Locals come here to do their daily shopping. You can even grab a glass of wine at the stalls.
It is a sensory overload in the best way. The oyster bars are particularly popular in the mornings.
I love grabbing a slice of ensaimada here. This is a traditional sweet pastry.
Tasting local produce is one of the best things to do in Mallorca. Everything tastes so fresh and bright. Don’t forget to buy some Sobrassada to take home.
9. See the Creative Side of Deià
Deià is a small village with a very cool vibe. Artists and writers have lived here for decades. It has a peaceful and creative atmosphere that I love. The houses are built into the steep hillside.
Robert Graves, the famous poet, lived here for many years. You can visit his house which is now a museum. The garden is full of citrus and carob trees. It is a very inspiring place.
Narrow streets are fun to wander between local galleries. The village is much quieter than the big tourist spots. It is the perfect place for a slow afternoon.
Grab a drink at a local bar. The view of the church at the top is stunning.
10. Visit the Sanctuary of Lluc
This is a beautiful monastery hidden in the mountains. Visitors find it a very spiritual and calm place. You can walk through the botanic gardens or visit the museum. It is the most sacred site on the island.
The drive up to Lluc is very scenic. You will see high peaks and deep limestone valleys. Many people come here to hear the boys’ choir sing.
Their voices sound incredible in the stone church. They are one of the oldest choirs in Europe.
Many hikers use this as a base for their trips. The surrounding forest is perfect for a quiet walk. It shows a very different side to the island.
Stay overnight for a truly peaceful experience. The stars at night are amazing from here.
11. Enjoy the Sunset at Port de Sóller
There is no better way to end the day. Watching the sun sink into the Mediterranean is unbeatable. Port de Sóller has a horseshoe bay that catches the light perfectly.
The water turns a deep shade of orange and pink.
The promenade is lined with great restaurants and bars. You can watch the luxury yachts bobbing in the water. It is a very sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
Everyone gathers on the sand to watch the view.
Sit at a beachside bar with a cold drink. Watch the boats come back into the harbour. It is one of the most relaxing things to do in Mallorca.
You will feel very lucky to be there. It is the perfect end to any island day.
How to Get Around Mallorca
Navigating the island is easier than you might think. However, your choice of transport depends on your plans. If you want to see the hidden spots, a car is essential.
Hiring a Car
Driving is the best way to tick off the top things to do in Mallorca. It gives you the freedom to reach remote beaches and mountain peaks. I always hire a car at Palma airport. This saves time and money on taxis.
The roads are generally in excellent condition. Be prepared for narrow lanes in the mountain villages. Parking in Palma can be tricky and quite expensive. I suggest using the large underground car parks in the city centre.
Using Public Transport
Public transport is surprisingly good for a holiday island. The TIB buses connect Palma with most major towns. They are clean, air-conditioned and very reliable. You can pay with your contactless card on most routes.
Trains also run from Palma to Inca and Manacor. This is a great way to see the central plains. However, buses don’t always reach the remote hiking trails. Check the timetables carefully if you are planning a mountain trip.
Getting Around Palma
Walking is the best way to see the capital. Most sights in the Old Town are very close together. For longer distances, use the city’s red and yellow buses. Taxis are also plentiful and easy to hail in the street.
Where to Stay in Mallorca
If you want a stylish and comfortable place, Ca’n Beneit is exactly what you need. I stayed here and it was a dream. It is a 200-year-old former chapel and farmhouse.
The hotel sits on a hill overlooking the peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana.
This hotel offers something completely different from the coastal resorts. It feels like a secret retreat from the modern world.
Instead of your standard room, you will find ten unique suites. Each one has original stone walls and rustic wooden beams.
One of the highlights of Ca’n Beneit is the farm-to-table dining. Their restaurant, Mirabona, uses ingredients grown right on the property.
You can even see the working olive mill that is centuries old. The food is honest, local, and incredibly delicious.
The outdoor pool offers panoramic views of the mountains. It is a quiet spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
You can also enjoy a yoga class in the old chapel area. It is a place designed for pure relaxation. If you are looking for a special stay in Mallorca, this is it.
Where to Stay in Mallorca For Families
For families, I still love Dreams Calvia in the south. It has multiple pools and amazing kids’ clubs. However, for a real taste of the island’s soul, Ca’n Beneit is unbeatable.
Day Trips from Mallorca
Once you have done the main things to do in Mallorca, try a day trip. You can reach most places in an hour by car. The island is small enough to explore deeply.
- Cabrera Island: Take a boat to this protected nature reserve. The water is perfect for snorkelling. You need to book your boat trip in advance.
- Sineu Market: Visit on a Wednesday for the traditional livestock market. This is a very local experience. You can buy everything from clothes to farm animals.
- Artà: This town has amazing caves and a beautiful hilltop church. The views from the Sanctuary of Sant Salvador are epic.
So, is Mallorca worth it? Absolutely. It has the perfect mix of magic and sun. You will find something to love whether you want adventure or rest. I am already planning my next trip back to the island.
If hiking caught your eye, here’s a separate guide detailing the best trails on the island.
And if you enjoyed this, you might like my guide to Prague. It has 11 top things you will love there too!
